Play19: Creative Gaming Festival – A Conversation with Valentina Birke

The Play19 Creative Gaming Festival, held in Hamburg in November 2019, served as a platform to explore the intersection of human psychology and interactive media under the thematic banner of "Of Monsters and Games." The event aimed to analyze the multifaceted role of monsters in video games, examining how these figures manifest human fears, serve as narrative obstacles, or function as companions. By integrating workshops, international exhibitions, and industry panels, the festival provided a space for both the public and professional developers to engage with diverse approaches to game design.

The festival program emphasized professional development and industry networking, offering insights into specialized areas such as emotional monster design and advanced storytelling techniques. A core component of the event was the Creative Gaming Award, which recognized excellence in innovation and creativity. The selection criteria for the award prioritized unconventional design choices, including unique control schemes, eye-tracking technology, and narrative experimentation, intended to challenge players and provoke reflection.

As an inclusive event, the festival functioned as a bridge between the local Hamburg games industry and the broader international development community. By facilitating studio visits and artist talks, the organizers sought to foster collaboration and provide developers with direct access to their audience. The initiative highlighted the importance of creative risk-taking in game development, celebrating projects that successfully implement unusual mechanics while maintaining high levels of player engagement.